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49 pages 1 hour read

The Nest

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2016

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Book Brief

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Cynthia D'Aprix Sweeney

The Nest

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2016
Book Details
Pages

353

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 2000s

Publication Year

2016

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Nest by Cynthia D'Aprix Sweeney is a 2016 contemporary fiction novel set in New York City that follows the story of four adult siblings—Leo, Jack, Bea, and Melody Plumb—who are set to receive a significant inheritance. When Leo's recklessness nearly depletes the funds, the siblings are forced to confront their financial dependencies and adjust their lives beyond their monetary expectations.

Melancholic

Bittersweet

Contemplative

Emotional

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

3.6

210,025 ratings

50%

Loved it

37%

Mixed feelings

14%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Cynthia D'Aprix Sweeney's The Nest masterfully explores the complexities of family dynamics and financial dependence among siblings. Critics praise its engaging narrative and well-developed characters, though some find the plot predictable and the resolution lacking depth. Overall, it’s seen as a compelling, character-driven drama.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Nest ?

Readers who enjoy exploring family dynamics and secrets will find The Nest by Cynthia D'Aprix Sweeney compelling. Comparable to Jonathan Franzen's The Corrections and Celeste Ng's Little Fires Everywhere, it appeals to those who appreciate intricate character studies and interpersonal drama within affluent settings.

3.6

210,025 ratings

50%

Loved it

37%

Mixed feelings

14%

Not a fan

Character List

Leo Plumb

The novel’s central character who sets the plot in motion by causing a car accident, and is a once-successful figure in Manhattan known for his socialite status and business venture with SpeakEasy media.

Leo’s younger brother who feels overshadowed by him and values status and image, living an upscale lifestyle while concealing financial troubles, leading to a dynamic character arc.

The youngest Plumb sibling, a married mother approaching 40, who is deeply invested in maintaining an appearance of wealth for her family and is significantly impacted by changes to their financial situation.

A quirky and eccentric writer, who leads a modest lifestyle and has a supportive role in the narrative, valuing Leo’s professional expertise while navigating her own literary career.

Connected to the Plumb family through Leo, whom she previously dated, Stephanie is assertive and values her boundaries, playing a significant role in Bea’s literary career as her agent.

Book Details
Pages

353

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 2000s

Publication Year

2016

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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